by Victoria Heinecke

There is always a second chance for God’s grace.

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
Acts 2:38 English Standard Version (ESV)

If you’ve lived in southeast Michigan, this is a familiar sign. Affectionately called a “Michigan Left Turn,” these signs direct drivers to first turn right in order to make a left turn on major streets. To a seasoned visitor, or a native, navigating this becomes second nature. To a newcomer it can be confusing, and without a geographic landmark, such as a mountain for a guide, it doesn’t take much to get lost.

These intersections are neatly laid out across most of metropolitan Detroit in a neat grid of blocks about every mile. If the driver misses their turn, however, they need not worry. There’s another chance about a mile down.

Peter called on the people of Jerusalem to repent. The concept of repentance is more than feeling regret for past behaviors, and sins. It also is a call to turn one’s life around (in essence, making a 180-degree turn) away from a life of sin, and towards a life filled with God’s grace.

“Jesus stood up and said to her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” She said, “No one, Lord.” And Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.”
John 8:10-11 ESV

In the eighth chapter of John’s gospel, a woman caught in adultery was brought to Jesus. The law commanded that she be stoned to death. However, Jesus forgave her sin, and he didn’t stop there. He encouraged her to live in God’s grace, but also commanded her to sin no more.

If we miss the turn God’s grace allows us a second chance, and that is good news, indeed!

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado